New York Knickerbockers President of Basketball Operations Isiah Thomas announced today that free agent forward Jared Jeffries has been signed to a contact. As per club policy, terms of the deal will not be disclosed.

Jeffries, 6-11, 240-pounds, has appeared in 256 career games for the Washington Wizards over the past four seasons to average 6.1 points and 4.8 rebounds. During the 2005-06 season, Jeffries averaged 6.4 points and 4.9 rebounds in 77 games (all starts). The 24-year-old Bloomington, IN native was originally selected after his sophomore season out of Indiana University in the first round (11th pick overall) of the 2002 NBA Draft.

“Jared is exactly the type of player that fits into our plans for the upcoming season and for our future,” Thomas said. “His age, size and versatility will complement the rest of our young roster and it should make him a staple on our frontline for years to come.”

InsideHoops.com Editor Says: Jeffries doesn't score or rebound much, but he defends and tries to do the little things. The Knicks do need more players like Jared. The Knicks are overpaying for him like they do with all their players, but he's a good addition.